Hunting After a Total Knee Replacement | The Return to Hunting

Introduction

Hunting is more than just a hobby; it’s a passion that often defines one’s connection to the outdoors. It’s about creating memories with family and friends, embarking on long road trips, experiencing heart-pounding moments as that target buck walks under the tree stand, and the satisfaction of putting food on the table.

However, for those who have undergone knee replacement surgery, the prospect of returning to the field may seem daunting.

In this guide, we’ll explore how you can navigate the challenges of hunting after a knee replacement, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in the great outdoors. 

Hunting After a Total Knee Replacement (TKA)

Recovery after a total knee replacement surgery occurs in distinct stages, each with its own set of challenges and milestones. Understanding what to expect during each phase can help you prepare mentally and physically for the journey ahead, ultimately setting you up to return to the field for the upcoming hunting season.

Breakdown of Recovery Stages:

0-2 weeks:

• • • Immediately following surgery, focus will be on pain management and initial mobility exercises.
    • Patients typically use a front wheeled walker or a cane during this stage of recovery.
    • Physical therapy may begin to regain range of motion and strength in the knee.

2-4 Weeks:

• • • Pain and swelling gradually decrease, allowing for increased mobility.
    • Patients may transition from using assistive devices to walking with a cane or independently.
    • Physical therapy intensifies to improve muscle strength and joint stability.

4-6 Weeks:

• • • Continued progress in mobility and strength.
    • Patients may start to engage in more functional activities, such as stair climbing and light household chores.
    • Flexibility exercises become more advanced to improve joint mobility.

6-8 Weeks:

• • • Many patients begin to resume light recreational activities, under the guidance of their healthcare provider.
    • Physical therapy focuses on functional activities specific to daily life and recreational interests.
    • This is when hunting-related activities can resume, such as drawing and shooting a bow and arrow or a gradual return to walking on uneven surfaces.

8+ Weeks:

• • • By this stage, most patients have regained significant mobility and strength in the operated knee.
    • Focus shifts towards gradually increasing activity levels and returning to more strenuous recreational activities, such as hunting.
    • Certainly, the type of game you are hunting may require a longer recovery time, such as elk hunting in the mountains.

Understanding these milestones can help you set realistic expectations for your recovery journey and plan accordingly for your return to hunting.

Managing expectations for physical abilities during each stage.

Walking After a Total Knee Replacement

Regaining the ability to walk comfortably and confidently is a crucial aspect of recovery after a total knee replacement (TKA).

Here’s what you need to know about walking post-surgery:

1. Early Mobility:

In the immediate post-operative period, you’ll be encouraged to start moving as soon as possible. Initially, this may involve assisted walking with the help of a walker.

Early mobility starts the same day of surgery and will continue for the duration of the recovery process.

2. Gradual Progression:

As your knee heals and strength improves, you’ll gradually transition from assisted walking to walking independently.

Your physical therapist will guide you through exercises to improve balance, gait mechanics, and overall mobility.

3. Weight-Bearing:

Weight-bearing exercises are essential for rebuilding strength in the muscles surrounding the knee joint. Your therapist will prescribe specific exercises to gradually increase the amount of weight you put on your operated leg during walking.

Performing weight-bearing exercises early in the recovery process will help desensitize the central nervous system and assist in speeding up the recovery process.

4. Proper Form:

Paying attention to your walking technique is important to reduce the risk of developing bad habits, poor gait mechanics, and promote optimal healing.

Focus on maintaining proper posture, engaging your core muscles, and taking smooth, controlled steps.

5. Pacing Yourself:

While it’s natural to want to push yourself to return to normal activities quickly, it’s important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion.

Gradually increase the duration and intensity of your walks as your knee tolerates. Your body needs adequate rest for optimal recovery.

6. Terrain Considerations:

When walking outdoors, choose level, stable surfaces to minimize the risk of falls or uneven terrain that could strain your knee. Start with shorter walks and gradually progress to more challenging terrain as your confidence and strength improve.

Walking on uneven terrain can start when you’re walking independently with no pain or instability for two weeks on even surfaces.

By prioritizing rehabilitation exercises and gradually increasing your activity levels, you can regain the ability to walk comfortably and confidently after a total knee replacement, setting the stage for a successful return to hunting.

Considerations for Hunting After a Total Knee Replacement

As we know, hunting is a physically demanding activity that requires careful planning and consideration, especially after undergoing a total knee replacement (TKA).

Here are some key factors to keep in mind when preparing to return to hunting:

1. Type of Game:

Consider the type of game you plan to hunt and how it may impact your knee. For example, hunting small game may involve more walking and agility, while hunting larger game may require more strength for carrying and dragging.

Sitting in a ground blind while hunting whitetail will occur way before you’re ready to trek the Rocky Mountains in search of elk.

2. Terrain:

Assess the terrain of your hunting area and its suitability for your post-surgery mobility level. Flat, even terrain may be easier to navigate initially, while rough or steep terrain may pose greater challenges.

Consider access points to your honey hole and set up ground blinds that are more easily accessible to improve safety when returning to the field.

3. Ground Cover:

Take into account the type of ground cover you’ll encounter while hunting. Avoid areas with dense vegetation or uneven surfaces that could increase the risk of tripping or putting strain on your knee.

Navigating thick brush while pheasant hunting or steep creek banks while turkey hunting will likely give the wildlife an advantage.

4. Distance of Walking:

Determine how much walking you’ll need to do during your hunting trip and plan accordingly. Start with shorter outings and gradually increase the distance as your knee strength and endurance improve.

5. Lifting and Carrying:

Consider how you’ll manage lifting and carrying gear, game, or equipment. Invest in lightweight gear and consider using equipment such as game carts or backpacks with padded straps to distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on your knee.

6. Pacing Yourself:

Pace yourself during your hunting outings to avoid overexertion and minimize the risk of fatigue or injury. Take breaks as needed, stay hydrated, and listen to your body’s cues.

7. Products:

Products such as over-the-counter knee braces or compression sleeves can enhance your sense of stability and alleviate pain or inflammation.

Incorporating these braces or sleeves into your hunting gear can heighten awareness of the knee joint, thus enhancing your ability to traverse terrain safely and minimizing the risk of injury.

Products to Help Reduce Pain After a Total Knee Replacement

Managing pain and discomfort is an important aspect of recovery after a total knee replacement (TKA). While rehabilitation exercises and proper rest are crucial, there are also various products available to help alleviate pain and support your knee during the healing process.

Here are some of my top recommended products:

1. Knee Sleeve:

A knee sleeve provides compression and support to the knee joint, helping to reduce swelling and inflammation.

Look for a sleeve specifically designed for post-surgery use, with adjustable straps for a customized fit.

2. Kinesiotape:

Kinesiotape can be applied to the skin around the knee to provide support and stability without restricting movement. It may help reduce pain and improve circulation, promoting faster healing.

3. Ice Compression:

Ice compression therapy combines cold therapy with compression to reduce swelling and relieve pain.

There are various ice compression wraps and packs available that can be applied directly to the knee for targeted relief.

4. Boots:

Specialty boots designed for post-surgery recovery can provide additional support and stability to the knee while walking or resting. These boots often feature adjustable straps and padding for comfort.

5. Exercise Equipment:

Investing in exercise equipment such as resistance bands, dumbbells, or stationary bikes can help facilitate rehabilitation exercises prescribed by your physical therapist.

These tools can improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the knee joint to maximize your performance while hunting.

Before using any of these products, consult with your healthcare provider or physical therapist to ensure they are appropriate for your specific condition and stage of recovery.

By incorporating these supportive products into your recovery routine, you can effectively manage pain and discomfort after a total knee replacement, allowing for a smoother rehabilitation process.

With proper rehabilitation and regular exercise, you will likely be able to return to hunting with no extra equipment necessary.

Exercises to Do 6 Months After a TKA

Six months post total knee replacement (TKA), you’ve likely made significant progress in your recovery journey.

At this stage, you can focus on more advanced exercises to further strengthen and stabilize your knee joint.

Here are some exercises recommended for this stage of rehabilitation:

1. Leg Press:

Using a leg press machine or resistance bands, perform leg presses to strengthen the muscles around your knee. Start with light resistance and gradually increase as tolerated.

2. Lunges:

Perform forward lunges or stationary lunges to improve balance, stability, and strength in your legs. Ensure proper form by keeping your knees aligned with your ankles and avoiding overextension.

3. Step-ups:

Step onto a low platform or step with your operated leg, then step back down. This exercise helps improve strength and function in the muscles used for stair climbing and walking.

4. Single-leg Balance:

Stand on your operated leg and maintain your balance for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Use support as needed, such as holding onto a stable surface or using a chair for assistance. Progress the intensity by standing on an uneven surface, such as a pillow or couch cushion, to improve lower extremity proprioception, strength, and balance.

5. Calf Raises:

Stand with your feet hip-width apart and rise up onto your toes, then lower back down. This exercise targets the calf muscles and helps improve ankle stability.

6. Squats:

Perform squats using your body weight or holding onto a stable surface for support. Focus on maintaining proper form, keeping your knees aligned with your ankles and not letting them collapse inward. Start with mini-squats and progress to regular squats with resistance as tolerated.

7. Deadlifts:

This exercise offers several benefits to hunters. Deadlifts strengthen the lower back, legs, and core muscles, enhancing stability and endurance necessary for long treks through rugged terrain. Additionally, deadlifts improve overall functional strength, aiding in tasks like carrying heavy gear or dragging game during hunts.

Remember to progress gradually with these exercises and listen to your body. If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop the exercise and consult with your healthcare provider. Consistency and patience are key to continued progress in your rehabilitation journey after total knee replacement surgery.

Conclusion

Hunting after a knee replacement is a realistic and achievable goal with careful planning, preparation, and dedication to your rehabilitation journey. By understanding what to expect after total knee replacement surgery, prioritizing mobility and strength exercises, and making use of supportive products, you can minimize pain and discomfort while enjoying the great outdoors.

It’s essential to listen to your body, pace yourself during hunting outings, and make adjustments as needed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Consulting with your healthcare provider or physical therapist throughout the recovery process is crucial for personalized guidance and support.

Remember that every individual’s recovery timeline and capabilities are unique, so it’s important to approach hunting after knee replacement with patience and realistic expectations. With proper care and attention, you can continue pursuing your passion for hunting and outdoor adventure for years to come.

Stay focused on your goals, stay safe, and most importantly, enjoy the journey.